Trade Resources Culture & Life Introductions of Chinese Lantern Parade

Introductions of Chinese Lantern Parade

 

What Is a Chinese Lantern Parade and When Is It?The parade during the Chinese Lantern Festival has often been depicted in movies showcasing Chinese culture. This vibrant and colorful parade marks a very important holiday tradition--the Chinese New Year.

History

The Chinese Lantern Festival has been celebrated for over 2,000 years, beginning during the Han Dynasty.

Origins

Many legends are told about the tradition's origins, some springing from Taoist beliefs, others from historic events.

Time of Year

What Is a Chinese Lantern Parade and When Is It?_1The Lantern Festival is celebrated on the last day of the Chinese New Year celebration, which runs for two weeks prior to the festival. It is on the 15th day of the first month of the Chinese New Year and generally occurs in February or early March on the American calendar. This day is also called the Chinese Valentine's Day.

Early Traditions

Traditionally, Chinese adults and children alike gathered together and carried their own personally decorated, paper lanterns down the street.

Current Traditions

In more contemporary parades, large, elaborate electric lanterns have replaced the original candlelit lanterns. However, traces of many of the old traditions still remain.

Source: http://traditions.cultural-china.com/en/14Traditions7871.html
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What Is a Chinese Lantern Parade and When Is It?
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